TAKEAWAYS face being banned within 200 metres of Liverpool schools under radical new proposals.

Education and council chiefs are backing the plan aimed at removing pupils’ temptation to eat fast food.

The idea is the brainchild of former city education boss, Cllr Paul Clein.

He is calling for an approach to government planners so future applications for fast food outlets within 200 metres of any school will be refused.

No new outlets would be allowed to take over existing venues under Cllr Clein’s plan.

It follows new US research which found having a fast-food restaurant near a school brought at least a 5.2% obesity increase.

Cllr Clein said it would complement existing healthy living measures in Liverpool, where 20.7% of boys and 14.8% of girls are obese by the age of 11.

He hopes the move will win full council support and “with a political will” could be implemented in months.

“If we are going to tackle obesity, there is no use in half measures.

“Kids like fast food meals and this is about removing the temptation for those who know the outlets are there and go three to four times a week.”

Tam Fry, chair of the obesity prevention Child Growth Foundation, said: “I think it is a great idea so long as schools offer a genuine healthy alternative.”

Council leader Warren Bradley said fast food companies were working with the council to educate pupils about a balanced diet.

“If Paul feels a change of regulations would help, then I would support that motion, knowing the impact fast food can have on families’ lives.”

Dewi Phillips, head at Childwall comprehensive specialist sports college, said: “I would support this. For me, there is nothing more frustrating at 3.30pm than seeing children queuing up to get chips.”